Ashley Judd has opened up about the heartbreaking memory of her mother Naomi Judd's suicide during an interview on CNN's All There Is with Anderson Cooper.
Speaking about the traumatic event that occurred on April 30, 2022, when Naomi took her own life at the age of 76, Ashley recalled finding her mother's body. Despite the shock and unexpected nature of the incident, Ashley expressed gratitude for being there for her mother even after her death.
In the interview, Ashley shared, "It was traumatic and unexpected because it was death by suicide, and I found her, but I was so glad I was there for her after her death." She recounted entering the room and seeing the aftermath but immediately expressing understanding and comfort to her late mother. "Momma, I see how much you've been suffering, and it is okay. I am here, and it is okay to let go," she said.
Ashley revealed that she encouraged her mother to find peace and reunite with her late loved ones. "All was forgiven long ago, leave it all here. Take nothing, be free," she conveyed.
When Anderson Cooper asked Ashley if Naomi's suicide made her question how well she knew her mother, the actress responded with empathy, saying, "I really honor the place in you that's coming from. I think we all deserve to be remembered for how we lived, and how we died is simply part of a bigger story."
Ashley's poignant recollections shed light on the complex emotions surrounding Naomi Judd's tragic death and the compassion Ashley extended even in the face of such a painful loss.
